Carmaker Luxgen, a combination of 'luxury' and 'genius', has unveiled its second Taiwan-designed and built car in less than 12 months.
The Luxgen7 is a low-cost Toyota Prado sized off-roader aimed at emerging markets in the Middle East, Central America, Vietnam, Russia and China. It will sell in its home market for between $26,000 and $38,000. The off-roader will join a Luxgen7 seven-seater people mover that goes on sale in Taiwan later this year. The company is also working on an electric people mover powered by a lithium ion battery pack and electric motor that delivers 180kW/265Nm.
Measuring 4800mm long, 1930mm wide and 1760mm high, the Luxgen7 four-wheel drive is slightly low and shorter than a Prado but 45mm wider. The car is powered by a turbocharged 130kW 2.2-litre four cylinder mated to a sequential five-speed Aisin automatic and intelligent three-mode 4WD system that has front, all-wheel drive and low-range modes.
Equipment includes a standard automatic tailgate, leather interior, premium CD stereo, massaging seats and "anti-theft sport seat" - a driver's seat that slides forward to lock against the steering wheel and prevent access.
Safety gear runs to dual front airbags, anti-skid brakes and brake assist. Side and curtain airbags, electronic stability control and traction control are optional.
A high-tech on-board computer package called "Think Plus" takes care of communication and navigation needs as well as video and audio entertainment. It is complemented by four visual safety systems, a 360-degree camera system, blind spot warning, lane departure warning and night vision.
Taiwan company High Tech Computer Corp developed the technology for Luxgen. HTC chief executive officer, Peter Chou, says the company is aiming to help create a new generation of intelligent vehicles. "We have worked with Luxgen to develop a sophisticated onboard program designed to think ahead for drivers, creating a new level of road safety," he says.
The Luxgen brand was established in 2008 by the Yulon Group, which is involved in automotive research and development, textile manufacturing, IT and the financial services industry.
- Company: Luxgen
- Owner: Yulong Group
- Country: Taiwan
- Models: Luxgen7 MPV, Luxgen7 SUV
- Operating: Since 1953
- Production: More than 2 million
- Associations: Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Mitsubishi, General Motors, Chrysler.
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